Prospect calls on SFA to take action on referee safety

Prospect is extremely concerned by recent incidents that have threatened Scottish football referees’ safety, both at work and outside the workplace.

Pitch invasions, verbal and physical threats and the leaking of referees’ personal details are unacceptable and must be met with a robust response.

Everyone working at football matches in Scotland has a right to feel safe, on and off the pitch. Referees can be particularly vulnerable and need strong support from all relevant authorities, including the Scottish Football Association (SFA).

We call on the SFA to instigate discussions with all relevant parties and representatives to address this blight on the game, and we will continue to support affected members.

Prospect members who are impacted by this issue can contact the Scotland office on [email protected].

Prospect has significant membership amongst Scottish football referees, and a history of fighting for their rights and safety. In 2024, the union successfully campaigned for the SFA to officially recognise referees as workers, rather than self-employed, meaning they are now afforded workers’ rights like holiday pay and pension entitlement.